Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

inFAMOUS (Special Edition) delivers a highly satisfying blend of open-world traversal and electrifying superpower combat. You step into the shoes of Cole MacGrath, a bike courier turned conduit, and immediately feel the thrill of zipping across Empire City’s rooftops using his lightning-fast movement abilities. The parkour elements pair seamlessly with Cole’s arsenal of electric-based attacks, creating a dynamic flow where exploration and combat never feel disjointed.

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One of the standout features in this Special Edition is the downloadable additional power, accessible via the included PlayStation Network code. This new ability adds a fresh strategic layer: you can customize Cole’s moveset mid-game to suit your personal playstyle, whether you prefer more crowd-control shockwaves or focused single-target strikes. The pacing remains brisk, keeping encounters varied enough that you’re constantly encouraged to experiment with combos and environmental interactions.

Beyond pure combat, mission variety keeps you hooked. Side quests range from rescuing trapped citizens to dismantling enemy strongholds, each designed to test both your traversal skills and your mastery over Cole’s expanding repertoire of powers. Whether you lean toward heroic deeds or embrace a darker morality, the gameplay systems sensitively adapt, opening up new tactical possibilities and replay value.

Graphics

The graphical presentation in inFAMOUS still holds up remarkably well, especially in this Special Edition, which comes with an art book that offers a deep dive into the game’s unique visual style. Empire City feels alive, thanks to detailed architecture, dynamic weather effects, and fluid lighting that accentuates every crackle of electricity. Even on older hardware, the environments remain rich with atmospheric grit.

Character models and animations have aged gracefully, with smooth transitions between traversal moves and combat stances. Sparks and lightning arcs are rendered crisply, making each shock attack feel weighty and impactful. The Special Edition’s art book showcases concept sketches and color studies, giving fans insight into the design decisions that shaped the game’s distinctive look.

Cutscenes are presented with cinematic flair, featuring striking camera angles and well-timed lighting shifts that underscore narrative beats. The art book also highlights storyboard sequences, illustrating how pivotal scenes evolved from concept to final in-game cinematics. This attention to visual storytelling strengthens the immersion and underscores why inFAMOUS remains a graphical touchstone for action-adventure titles.

Story

The narrative arc of inFAMOUS centers on Cole’s transformation from ordinary courier to reluctant hero, navigating moral dilemmas that impact both his powers and his standing with the citizens of Empire City. The writing deftly balances high-stakes drama with nuanced character moments, making Cole a relatable protagonist whose decisions carry real weight.

The Special Edition’s packaging hints at deeper lore, and the included art book fleshes out backstories for key NPCs and the infamous ritual that grants conduits their powers. Reading through developer commentary and early concept art enriches your appreciation for the story’s thematic underpinnings—power, responsibility, and the fine line between savior and tyrant.

Voice acting remains a highlight, with strong performances that lend emotional depth to Cole’s interactions. Whether you choose a righteous or ruthless path, the branching dialogue and mission outcomes underscore how every choice echoes throughout the city. This branching narrative ensures that no two playthroughs feel identical, fueling the desire to revisit Empire City under a different moral lens.

Overall Experience

As a complete package, inFAMOUS (Special Edition) feels like a definitive way to experience one of the PlayStation 3’s hallmark titles. The cardboard slip case offers sturdy protection and eye-catching artwork, while the art book elevates the value proposition by granting a behind-the-scenes look at the game’s creative journey. It’s a collector’s dream that goes beyond mere digital downloads.

The inclusion of a PlayStation Network code for an additional power is more than a trinket—it’s a meaningful enhancement to Cole’s toolkit that can reshape how you approach combat and exploration. Combined with the core game’s strong mechanics and branching story, this bonus power spices up repeat runs and encourages experimentation.

Whether you’re a returning fan or a newcomer intrigued by the promise of superhero-style traversal and moral-driven gameplay, this Special Edition offers both substance and style. Ubisoft’s attention to packaging, supplemental materials, and in-game content makes inFAMOUS (Special Edition) an engaging, well-rounded experience that still shocks and delights years after its original release.

Retro Replay Score

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